Why the Future of Africa Lies in Solar Power

Over R130 billion (roughly US$10 billion) is spent on energy products such as charcoal, kerosene and candles across Africa annually. However, the work being done in South Africa with solar power means that number could drop drastically over the next decade or two. But what’s the state of renewable energy on the continent now, and what does the future look like for the two? Solar Power and South Africa Jo Dean is the South African Solar Photovoltaic Committee chairperson, and she recently spoke at the Power & Electricity World Africa 2017 conference in Johannesburg. Here, she discussed the current state of solar and renewable power in Africa and spoke about how positive things seem. Looking to the future, she was excited about a “vibrant off-grid solar industry” that’s poised to take off on the continent. She also mentioned hopes that off-grid solar power could lower energy...